Word Origin & History

awe c.1200, from O.N. agi "fright," from P.Gmc. *agiz- (cf. O.E. ege "fear," O.H.G. agiso "fright, terror," Goth. agis "fear, anguish"), from PIE *agh-es- (cf. Gk. akhos "pain, grief"), from base *agh- "to be depressed, be afraid" (see ail). Current sense of "dread mixed with veneration" is due to biblical use with ref. to the Supreme Being. The verb is first attested c.1300. Awe-inspiring is recorded from 1814.

Example Sentences for awed

Awed by his power and his sternness, the parents yielded her to his will.

I was awed and abashed by the dignity of his bearing and his speech.

He had done him many kindnesses, but he had awed Donald with his shipboard severity.

"I hear them, gracious lady," replied the girl in an awed whisper.

Then they rested with awed admiration on the face of a great winged angel stooping with outstretched hand.

The men, knowing her reputation as a fighter, and awed by her appearance, hesitated.

It is filled, and even the sceptical De Breze is impressed and awed by the sight.